Colombo, March 29 — Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has publicly thanked India after a shipment of 38,000 metric tonnes of fuel reached Colombo amid supply disruptions linked to the West Asia crisis.
In a message posted on X, Dissanayake said he had discussed the fuel problems with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and expressed appreciation for India’s prompt assistance. He also acknowledged External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar for coordinating support.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, Modi and President Dissanayake held a phone conversation on March 24 about the evolving situation in West Asia and its impact on global energy security. The leaders underscored the need to keep shipping lanes open and safe, reviewed progress on India–Sri Lanka energy collaboration, and reaffirmed commitments under India’s Neighbourhood First policy and the MAHASAGAR initiative. They agreed to remain in contact as the situation develops.
Separately, Jaishankar spoke by phone on March 23 with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath to discuss the conflict’s repercussions. India’s outreach to Colombo comes as several neighbouring countries have requested additional fuel supplies from India to cope with shortages caused by the crisis.
